Singapore – The National Library Board (NLB) of Singapore is introducing a unique way to read through ‘Spectacles,’ an augmented reality (AR) glasses. Made in partnership with Snap and Le Pub Singapore, NLB’s Spectacles immerses readers in the story world they are reading.
Through the device, developed for Snap Spectacles, reading experiences will be elevated through audio-visual AR effects in real-time. While the user reads, the reading lenses scan the book. It uses text recognition and machine learning to provide audio-visual effects
Complementing readers’ experiences, it sets the mood through soundscapes and visuals about the storyline. Depending on the story, it provides effects such as suspenseful music, distant chattering, or music that sets the scene.
The AR Spectacles are currently undergoing beta testing and are set to be available for readers to try later this year. It was created by LeGarage, LePub’s innovation hub, while collaborating with Snap’s team in Paris.
Gene Tan, chief librarian & chief innovation officer at the National Library Board, said, “We are happy to partner LePub and Snap in this to explore ways to enhance the experience of stories and books for everyone. This is part of NLB’s ongoing efforts to engage with partners to experiment with new experiences that could inspire discovery and spark a renewed passion for reading and learning.”
Antoine Gilbert, senior manager, AR Studio Paris, Snap, said, “Snap’s AR Studio Paris’ mission is to educate and inspire the world about the possibilities of augmented reality in the fields of art, education, and culture. With the latest generation of Snap Spectacles, we are pushing the boundaries of immersive experiences, enabling new ways to interact with the world.”
“This innovation is further exemplified by the development of the world’s first Augmented Reading experience — a breakthrough designed to transform how people engage with written content through Snap Spectacles. By bridging the physical and digital realms, we continue to empower creativity and redefine the future of storytelling,” Gilbert added.
“Our goal is not to replace the traditional reading experience, but to enhance it by creating a compelling gateway to books. These glasses are an invitation to rediscover the joy of deep, meaningful engagement with text. Once people are hooked on the story, we hope they’ll keep reading to the end,” Stephan Schwarz, executive creative director at LePub Singapore, commented.
